L-Valine

Valine is a branched chain amino acid along with, Leucine and Isoleucine, and these all are essential amino acids. They are called “Branched Chain” amino acids because their carbon structures are marked by branched points. Valine is also known as (a)-aminoisovaleric acid, C5 H11 NO2 and is represented by Val; or V and has a mass of 99.14.

Function- Valine has a stimulant effect and is needed for muscle metabolism, tissue repair, and the maintenance of a proper nitrogen balance in the body. Valine is found in high concentrations in muscle tissue. It may be helpful in treating liver and gallbladder disease, and it is good for correcting the type of severe amino acid deficiencies that can be caused by drug addiction.

People with chronic kidney failure may also benefit from branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) supplementation. A preliminary study found improved breathing and sleep quality in people given branched chain amino acids during kidney dialysis.

Although the structure of the branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) is similar they have different metabolic routes. The breakdown of leucine is entirely through fat pathways, valine is entirely through carbohydrate pathways and isoleucine is through both.

Deficiency- In animal studies a deficiency of valine results in a deficiency of disaccharidase enzyme and displayed symptoms of neurological symptoms, aimless circling and staggering mobility.

Sources- Dietary sources of valine include dairy products, nuts, chickpeas, rye, liver, lentils, grains, meat, mushrooms, peanuts, and soy protein.

Precautions- The inborn error of metabolism is ketoaciduria (Maple Urine Disease) in which keto acids are excreted. Maple syrup urine can produce convulsions, ataxia and coma in severe cases.

Requirements- Supplemental L-valine should always be taken in balance with the other branched-chain amino acids, L-isoleucine and L-leucine. There is no Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) listed. Individual needs may differ due to clinical conditions, biochemical individuality and absorption. All sources of nutrients should be consumed in their most natural state, in the form of a variety of foods or supplements when necessary. Free form amino acid supplements are immediately absorbed by the body and should be consumed with natural occurring cofactors for best results. Consulting with a physician that is properly trained in the natural healing sciences and amino acid therapy may be needed for optimum results.

Written by Jerome Rerucha D.C.

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